If only we listened to the poor as much as we listen to religious people

In 2006 the late Christopher Hitchens gave a classic lecture at Toronto University on free speech and why organised religion was, simultaneously, the main source of hatred in the world and the main caller for protection from hate speech.

For me, the idea Jesus was conceived by a virgin and a Holy Spirit a few thousand years ago is so ludicrous you can even joke about it on the radio. But apparently you can't do this without demands for your sacking and threats on your life.This may seem like trivial FM radio rubbish, and maybe it is, but there's a serious point to be made. In theory Sandilands could be done for the crime of blasphemy.

Try soliciting an apology from any of the "no" campaigners for the hurtful, hateful things they said over and over again to actual, real people during the marriage equality survey. You won't get squat. I'm happy to listen to faith leaders, especially when they're advocating for people who are not necessarily part of their flock; the impoverished and disadvantaged, the downtrodden, the little guys. But I wonder what would happen if we started listening directly to poor people as much as we do religious people.

The Senate's community affairs committee will be travelling the country in coming weeks hearing from stakeholders and interest groups about the proposed trial for drug testing welfare recipients, as well as the expansion of the cashless welfare card scheme.

michaelkoziol You mean the 'hateful' things like 'marriage is between a man and a woman'? The only hate came from the 'YES' side who did nothing but lie and spread hatred of anyone who dared stand against their vile destruction of the institution of marriage.

michaelkoziol Kyle Sandilands...

michaelkoziol Kyle Sandilands is a favourite whipping boy for the Media & right wing commentators. His crime is blunt speaking & arguably poor taste, yet he’s a mere amateur compared to the insulting & disgusting commentary of LNP pollies, why isn’t Anne Ruston packing her bags or Tony Abbott?

michaelkoziol religion is fatuous and does more harm than good

michaelkoziol No campaigners would have nothing to apologies for. If hurt is the critical point in your discussion, then gay marriage upsets and hurts many religious people. Why aren’t you seeking an apology from the yes camp on their behalf.

michaelkoziol No idea what this is about. At all.

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